Find the Best Interior Doors

You should not be in a rush when you are buying a new door for your home. This is something that is going to be a part of your home for many years to come. You will use it every day. It will most likely still be there when you decide to sell your home. This is why selecting the right door is so vitally important. It will be well worth it in the long run if you are patient and take the time needed to select a quality door. Here are a few things to look for when buying a door.

1. Can it do what you want it to?

You need to be certain that a door is capable of standing up to the punishment you are going to be subjecting it to on a regular basis. Otherwise, you will find yourself buying a new door in a very short period of time. It would be wise to ask the manufacturer of the door if it will be able to withstand the wear and tear that you need it to. This will save you the cost and inconvenience of having to buy and install a new door sometime in the future.

2. Who makes the door?

The manufacturer of the door is something that is very important. There are certain companies that have been making doors for many decades. They have developed a stellar reputation of producing quality products over the year. These are the companies you should be looking at when you are shopping for doors. You will need to talk to someone at the door store to find out which door manufacturers are generally considered to be the best. ETO Doors is a great place to find doors made by all of the top manufacturers. You can look at their inventory of interior doors located at http://ift.tt/16wd0VA.

3. What sort of a warranty does it come with?

Buying with confidence is something that is essential when you are shopping for a door. You need to be sure that the door you buy is not going to have any problems soon after you install it. This is why you should only buy doors that are covered by a warranty from the manufacturer or the store that sold it. This will ensure that you will not be paying for any repairs to the door that need to be made.

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/1TiH89A Find the Best Interior Doors - International Home Design Interior

Three Home Features to Improve if You Want to Sell

If you’re up to date with our posts, you’ll know that recently we posted an article on five ways to improve the exterior of your home, but what about the interior? Below are the top three features within a home that are crucial to swinging the buyer perspective in your favour.

The Walls

If your walls are dreary and drab, it can put negative thoughts in a buyer’s mind. Similarly, if your walls are too bright and overpowering, it can make a room look smaller and it’s more difficult for them to visualise living there.

Give your walls a spruce up and focus on maintaining that subtle balance; neutral tones such a soft greys or warm, light caramel colours, are far more inviting and will be suited to most furniture. It will make the room seem larger and improve that crucial first impression.

The Space

Your role is to help the buyer visualise living there, and this is made much harder when all you can see is clutter, whether it’s the porcelain figures of kittens lining the fireplace, or posters of rock bands above a bed.

If they walk in and just see simple furniture with a minimum of fuss, it will help to improve your chances of scoring a 10 rather than a 2.

The Garden

The garden is a huge feature to tackle and can seem daunting, but it can be the key to selling certain houses, so you should try to put a few of these points into action if you can:

• Power-wash your paving stones and de-weed them to freshen up the space
• Add a pebble boarder and some fresh gravel to a well-worn path
• Sand-down and paint your shed in a pale blue or green to create an on-trend beach-hut look
• Instead of just a table and chairs, add an outdoor heater and some modern lighting to highlight the entertainment possibilities of the space

Now that you’ve updated your home, you’re ready to sell, but how will you go about it? These days, there are much more modern ways of selling your home than ever before, so you don’t have to waste huge amounts on agency fees. By going with the House Network, you’ll know that for one online fee, your property will be posted to some of the best housing websites, and with your own personal negotiator, it takes the hassle out of selling houses.

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/1OnPC0W Three Home Features to Improve if You Want to Sell - International Home Design Interior

Style Decoration Home With The Use Of Wicker

Do you have a house that is full of old furnishings that need to go? Do you want to inject some new life into your home? A great way to accomplish that is with the use of wicker furniture. Wicker is also perfect for people moving into new homes that do not have any furnishings at all. Your furniture will leave a lasting impression on any of the guests that you invite over. Therefore, you should put some effort into selecting them. There are certainly many different styles of furniture that are available for you to choose from. Here are some of the main reasons why wicker is a good furniture option.

1. It will not cost you much

Wicker is certainly not one of the most expensive furniture materials available on the market. Therefore, it is a style of furniture that is easily affordable to people of all income levels. You should be able to buy yourself a couple of very good looking pieces of wicker furnishings no matter how strapped you are for cash. It will not break the bank of most people to furnish their entire home with wicker furnishings if that is what they desire.

2. It is a durable material

You want a piece of furniture to last for a long time if you are going to spend your hard-earned money on it. Therefore, the durability of the material the furniture is made out of should be one of your biggest concerns. Wicker can last for an extremely long time if it is properly cared for. You must be sure to treat your wicker furnishings with the proper protective coating if you plan on keeping it outside. Doing this will ensure that it is able to stand up to the elements without rotting. A store with a giant selection of wicker furnishings is Wicker Paradise. See what they have in stock by visiting http://ift.tt/1P4gN0G.

3. It can blend in with any decoration style

Most people have to stop and consider if a piece of furniture will match the style of decoration in their home. However, this is not necessary if you are shopping for wicker furnishings. Wicker has the unique ability to blend in seamlessly to a wide variety of design schemes. It has a timeless appearance that will remain appealing no matter what environment it is placed in. It is also perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/1Ipg4oy Style Decoration Home With The Use Of Wicker - International Home Design Interior

Four Renovations to Consider When Selling Your Home

Splashing out on home improvements is one sure way to add value and attractiveness to your home if you are trying to sell. Maybe your kitchen or bathroom is looking a little tired, or you’d like to add more space to your property to make it more attractive to buyers with large families. Home renovations not only make your home a more enjoyable place to live for you and other families, they also increase the market value of your home and put you in a better position to compete with other similar homes for sale in the area. If you’re considering selling your home and want to make some improvements to it, here are the top ones to consider.

A Conservatory

Having a conservatory added to the back of your home is one of the home renovation projects that can bring with it the highest rate of return. Buyers tend to be more attracted to homes with conservatories, as it provides them with an extra room for living in and for storage, however the appeal with a conservatory is that it makes an excellent area of the home during the summer.

Garden Renovations

It is easy to forget about your garden and the exterior areas of your home whilst you are focusing so hard on making sure that the interior is perfect to buyers. However, what’s important to remember is that your garden is the first thing that buyers will see when they pull up at the front of your home to view it. No matter how amazing your home may be on the inside, if your garden is overgrown and unkempt it can make a bad first impression on potential buyers and even put them off making an offer.

Extra Room Extension

If you think that your property could benefit from a bit more room, adding an extension or converting a garage can be an excellent way to do this, as well as adding value to your home. Adding an extension could mean that your home has an extra bedroom, or you could use the room as another living room, dining room, storage room or study. When it comes to adding extensions to your home, size restrictions do apply – however a reputable building company such as Georgian Home Renovations will be able to ensure that all of the different restrictions are met.

Kitchen Renovation

The kitchen is the heart of the home, and your kitchen may well be the first room that a potential buyer wants to look at when they are viewing the property. Many buyers replace the kitchen first, in order to put their own personal stamp on a property. However, if you are able to provide them with a new, modern and attractive space right from the very start, many buyers will be willing to pay more for the home as they will save money on kitchen renovations and remodelling. Which renovations do you think are the best for adding value to your home? Let us know in the comments.

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/1MtM3yF Four Renovations to Consider When Selling Your Home - International Home Design Interior

How to Choose the Best Stairlift for You

The time comes in every person’s life where they either have to deal with a temporary or a permanent disability. Sometimes these ailments are so bad that they render you unable to move on your own. Everyone hates to lose their independence, but luckily, now they do not have to. If you are in the market for stairlifts and are having trouble choosing the perfect one for you, then do not fret, there are many options to fit every one of your individual needs. Sometimes all it takes is just a little research and knowing where to begin your search.

Picking the perfect stairlift for you does not have to be a long involving task. Instead, with the proper knowledge before you delve right in, you can simplify your search and leave your mind at ease. When figuring out what stair lift is the perfect one for you, you have to take into consideration the layout of your home. Do you need to travel up multiple stories, is your staircase curved or straight, and what is the most convenient for your physical situation? The reason this matters is that they make stairlifts in a multitude of different configurations. If you have one long straight staircase, then a straight stairlift is allow that is necessary. On the other hand, if your staircase is circular or has a 90 degree turn at the landing, the best stair lift for you may be two straight ones, or a curved one. It is wise to compare stairlifts before deciding which to buy. Furthermore, the only downside to having two stairlifts is that they require more maintenance. Your other option are outdoor stairs lifts as well. Say you have a deck with a large set of stairs, then a weather resistant outdoor stairlift will be the perfect fit for your home.

The only two other options to consider after you choose your stairlift configuration is what will fit your physical state and what design will match your home the best. There are only two different options to change how you ride on your stairlift. They make seated stairlifts and also perch stairlifts. If your joint movements are limited, then you cannot go wrong with a stairlift that still retains all of the safety features, but just so happens to allow you to stand instead. The final question you need to answer to make your shopping experience a breeze is what color or design will fit your home best. This is totally subjective so this must be left to the future owner of their new stairlift. Hopefully, being informed of these options ahead of time will clear up any confusion you may have when you are shopping for a new stairlift. Mulling over these various options in advance will be sure to make your search for whatever stairlift fits you best an experience, rather than a battle. Be sure to take into consideration all of the different options available to you and enjoy making your life easier and more pain free.

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/1Je3XWb How to Choose the Best Stairlift for You - International Home Design Interior

Getting Temperature Stable In Your Home

Heat pumps are becoming hot property in the United States, as more American households realize how efficient and effective these heating and cooling systems are. Do you want to live in a comfortable home? As winter approaches, we’re sure that’s on your mind. Heat pumps can make it happen. They heat and cool consistently, so your house stays at a steady temperature with no unpleasant hot or cold patches.



Do you want to heat and cool your home without causing undue harm to the planet? If you’re like many Americans, you’re probably looking for more sustainable and energy-efficient ways to live your life. Heat pumps are much more environmentally friendly than many other commercial heating and cooling options, so they’ve been embraced by homeowners seeking more balanced temperature control solutions. It takes very little energy to move heat from one place to another, as heat pumps do. These units also don’t burn fuel like many other home-based heating units, so they won’t release noxious gas into the atmosphere.

Do you want to save money on your utility bills? Of course you do! As the price of power soars, heat pumps yield year after year energy savings that can quickly offset their upfront costs. Since they use less energy than other heating and cooling systems, you’ll quickly notice the savings on your power bills. Most Americans don’t know a lot about heat pumps, but the infographic below, published by Griffith Energy Services, should answer any questions you have. It explains clearly how heat pumps work, why Americans just like you love them, and how much money and energy they can save.



from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/1IaebMu Getting Temperature Stable In Your Home - International Home Design Interior

Alternatives To Gas Furnaces And Central Air Conditioners

Over half your home energy use goes to temperature control. It's your HVAC system's most important job, so it's equally important to find the right system.


When choosing a new heating and cooling system for your home, there are a few things to decide. What kind of system will you get? What models will you choose? What about energy efficiency? The most popular systems are gas furnaces and central air conditioners. With these two types of HVAC appliances, there are two measurements that are the most vital.

The AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) is a measurement of a furnace's ability to produce heat in comparison to the amount of energy it uses. The national minimum is 78 (out of 100), with the higher the number equaling higher efficiency. This will have a direct effect your gas bill.

The SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating of a central air conditioner. The federal minimum rating is 13 and the maximum is 23, with certain parts of the country having higher minimums. The higher the rating, the less money you'll pay in electricity to run your air conditioner. There are alternatives to gas furnaces and central air conditioners. The infographic below, from Davis Air Conditioning & Heating, is full of useful information about the features and benefits available with a variety of new high-efficiency systems, so you can make the best choice for your home and family.

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/1OtHdDc Alternatives To Gas Furnaces And Central Air Conditioners - International Home Design Interior

Design Style Tips For Your New Build Home

Are you moving into a newly built home soon? You may be wondering how you can transform an empty shell building into a beautiful contemporary home. It’s the kind of project many of us would like to get our hands on. But when you’re going to be living there, it can suddenly become quite a daunting task load.

To draw some inspiration for the decor of your new home, visit the show home of your builder. You can always check out the website of companies like Linden Homes to gain insight into the latest trends. Buying a newly built home certainly gives you options. But it would be best to stick with contemporary designs to match the age of the building.

Some builders offer you the options for some of the designs inside. They may be limited, but they can often help you get started with building up your own style. Bathroom tiles, flooring and wall colour, can often be chosen and installed before you move in. This is a huge help when you have an entire house to decorate. Have a look at the options. If you think they may complement your design ideas, then take advantage of them.

When you’re buying a brand new house, it is a nice idea to buy brand new furniture for it too. Having everything fresh and crisp and clean makes for a great start to your new life. New homes feature large open plan areas. This lends itself to furniture that is versatile in placement. But it may also require that you carefully match your colour palette across the entire range of furniture you choose.

Buying furniture from a single store isn’t essential, but it can help you match ideas when they’re all together. Alternatively, why not try stark contrasts to make each piece pop? Statement pieces and designs can make your home immediately stylish and chic with a modern look. Blacks and whites or another bold color like reds or blues can be energetic and dynamic in a brand new home.

If you have built your own home, then it is much easier to plan how you will design your interior. Buying a newly built home from a builder’s plan can actually offer you more choice. Most new homes are designed to be improved, extended or converted. Over time, you may want to alter your living areas to suit better your lifestyle as it changes. Simple things like loft conversions can be easier to do in standard design than in a home purpose built for your life right now.

One key area that can lead to disappointment without your direct intervention is the bathroom. While there may be choices in tiles and paint finish, many homes have a panel bath installed. If you want something more contemporary and stylish, you may need to speak to the company selling the home. It may be possible to negotiate a price for something else to be put in its place. It would be a shame to rip out a brand new bathroom to get what you want. Make your new build house into your dream home.

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/1m1kyHi Design Style Tips For Your New Build Home - International Home Design Interior

A Simple Guide to Hiring a Handy Man

There are only so many DIY projects that we can do around the house, and sometimes we need to learn that we may need a professional to fix something that’s broken or to build something that is a bit out of our expertise level. So do you want to call your local handy man services but you have no idea how to find the right one for you? Well, this simple guide will help you through the process of finding the perfect fit for your job.

1. Write Down Everything That You Want Done

Before you go out looking for a handyman you need to know what work you want done around the house. Go around and make a list of all the things that you either want built or fixed and this will help the process enormously. Once you know what it is that you need done around the house then you can decide on the skills and expertise that your handyman need to have in order to do the jobs at an adequate level. Unfortunately sometimes a handyman simply can’t do all the work that you need around the house and in this case it is best to get hold of a licensed professional such as a plumber or electrician for particularly skilled jobs.

2. Getting a List of the Best Prospects

Chances are that someone in your immediate circle will have the name of a handyman that they have used- this could be friends, family, co-workers or sports partners. Make a list of all the names given to you and create a list of the best four or five prospects available. You could also try get names from local real estate agents or home improvement stores close by. This list is basically the beginning of the screening process.

3. Online Presence

Before actually meeting the handyman you should do an online search for them and gather whatever it is you need to know. Previous customers will leave reviews and comments on them and this is a great opportunity to weed out any of the sub-par people from your list.

4. Skills and Expertise

One of the most important aspects of hiring a handy man is ensuring that they are fit to do the jobs that you require around the house. Make sure you check what the strength of each handyman is, as there is no point in hiring someone if they specialize in the complete opposite of the work that you need done.

5. Personality

It is essential that you hire a handyman that you get along with well. This person in going to be in your space and in your house for quite a long period of time, and therefore it’s important that you click. You also need to go with your gut instincts on whether you can trust them or not, as sometimes you will be leaving them at your home unattended and there is no point in hiring someone if you have to worry about your home every time you leave.

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/21V30xF A Simple Guide to Hiring a Handy Man - International Home Design Interior

How to Know When to Call an Expert in For Home Repairs

With homeownership comes great responsibilities. This includes home repairs. A lot of they time they will be something minor, and if you’ve got the time, you’ll repair it yourself. A bit of DIY can be quite fun, and it will save some cash. There are times though when there is no other option but calling for an expert.

It can just be because they have the knowledge and would be able to to the repair faster. It can be because they will have the right equipment and you don’t. Whatever the reason is, there are certain things that you should call an expert for.

Roof Repairs

The average person knows little about roof repairs. Would you know where to start? The biggest reason to call someone like ELC Roofing in is for safety. They have the long ladders that would be needed for a roof repair. A professional could erect scaffolding if needed and they have the correct protective clothing. If you attempted to repair your roof alone, you could get seriously injured. Falls are a big risk in roof repairs, and the damage you could do is scary to think about. Save yourself the long term hassle, and hire a roof repair expert.

Repairing the Electrics

This is something that in my opinion, should always be carried out by an expert. The electrics in a home can be dangerous, particularly if like most people, you don't have an extensive knowledge about it.

I’m sure we all know how to replace a lightbulb. Quite a few of us might know our earth wires from our live wires in a plug. Repairing a broken circuit or a damaged plug, is a different thing. Not every electricity related issue is solved by just flicking a switch! Call an electrician for an issue with your electricity. It will be so much safer as they will have the specialised experience and equipment needed.

Plumbing & Dishwasher Repairs

This is something that would have costly effects if it was to go wrong. Imagine if you tried to pull out your dishwasher, to attempt repairing the pump but made things worse. You might tug on a pipe a bit too hard and damage it. This could lead to leaks and flooding all over your kitchen! This is much less likely to happen to a professional. If on the off chance that it did, though, they would, at least, have the right equipment and spare pipes with them to repair it. A plumber would be able to do a job much faster than us too.

Quite a lot of us will enjoy DIY and small home repairs and some things you can easily fix yourself. Projects like this can be enjoyable, and you feel like you’ve achieved something. Knowing when to call an expert is crucial, though. You’d don’t want to attempt a job yourself to save some money, and then, in the long run, be worse off. Be safe and call an expert! Good luck with your home repairs.

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/1NdQP7l How to Know When to Call an Expert in For Home Repairs - International Home Design Interior

5 ways of improving the exterior of your home

Within the UK are privy to a home improvement market worth a cool £14 billion (Financial Times 2014); and with more than one in three homeowners (35%) spending in excess of £2000 a year on their home improvements (Saga 2015) it’s then little wonder that we are a nation that has earned the saying of an English Man’s home being his castle. So here we take a look at five savvy tips for improving the exterior or your home in order to well and truly keep way ahead of the Jones next door.

1. Make your entrance the star of the home exterior show

Your front door likely serves as the central focus of your exterior, so why not treat it to a suitable makeover? As a starting point you should maintain the door properly (particularly if it’s wood, in which case you can make a real difference with a sand down and repaint every ten years. Beyond this however you should think about framing the entrance with suitable planting, such as climbing plants for the door that is porch free or hanging baskets for the home with a porch.

You may also want to replace your house number and invest in bright lighting to really showcase your work throughout those dark winter nights.

2. Invest in a solid set of Garage Doors

For the property that features a garage there may be few as influential a feature upon the look of their home than their Garage Doors. Neglect this feature and leave your door to rust, peel or fall apart and an otherwise well-kept home can look a decided mess. What’s more with garages often serving as a through way into the home garage doors should also be considered as a vital link within your home’s chain of security.

3. Tend to your garden or add a little colour

If your exterior features a lawn then keeping it cut and tidy is essential. You can also frame your lawn all year round with winter loving bedding plants such as pansies, Violas, Primrose, Polyanthus or Sweet Williams.

And for the frontage that is decidedly lawn free the addition of a few colourful pots and shrubs can work wonders whilst still achieving the ultimate low maintenance exterior.

Finally you may want to add a little interest to your home through climbing plants, just be sure to use a wooden trellis that is placed away from your brickwork, as plants such as ivy can cause havoc for rendering and pointing).

4. Don’t neglect your fascias

The fascias upon your home (the parts that form the protective shield under your roof) can very often make for seemingly inconspicuous items, yet with a quick clean up your entire exterior can look that little bit extra shiny. And if you don’t yet have fascias (and instead have wooden planks) replacing old for new can really lift the appearance of your home (in addition to making it all the more water proof and easily maintainable).

5. Keep your windows sparkling clean (as well as the nets, curtains or blinds that lay beyond them)

Windows can sometimes go for years without seeing so much as a squeegee, and yet window cleaning services are often so reasonably priced (and can make for a real difference for the exterior appearance of your home). So add some sparkle and don’t forget to take down your nets, curtains or blinds for a thorough clean at least every 6 months. You may also want to consider replacing any window dressing with something that is colourful both back and front and add centre ornaments to create a little interest from an outside view of your home.

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/1NdqBlm 5 ways of improving the exterior of your home - International Home Design Interior

Making Your Bedroom Cosy This Winter

Your bedroom is your sanctuary and so you want it to be cosy and comfortable. I think this is especially important in winter. Here are a few tips to make your bedroom extra cosy this season.

Choose New Bedding

When you want a good night’s sleep, you need to be as comfortable as possible. In winter, you especially need to stay warm. In winter, you can save yourself a lot of money if you don’t need to have the heating on overnight, so getting new bedding is important. New bed sheets can make bedtime much more comfortable and cosy. Cotton is usually best to go for as it is soft and gentle on skin. It is less likely to be itchy, compared to a synthetic material.

Choose a Warmer Comforter

During this time of year, a thicker comforter can help to keep the heat in and keep you cosy. If you decide to go for a new comforter, you must decide what kind of filling you want. It comes down to down filled, or a down-alternative. Down has many advantages or being particularly lightweight, yet still insulating. The natural insulation from the feathers is an attractive option to many. Down can be the best option because it gives most warmth, without being heavy and making you feel a little smothered.

Down-alternative may be better for some as it is a little cheaper. It is also the better option for those of you with allergies. The drawbacks with a down-alternative comforter are that it needs more filling to get the same insulation. This can make it heavier and may make you feel a little more constrained or smothered.

If you have decided to go for the down option, there are a further two options within that. Do you go for a duck filled comforter or a goose filled comforter? Goose down is the better option as the feathers are longer. They are plucked from geese that are older. Duck down is often shorter and can come from younger ducks. It just means that the insulation is likely to be better with goose down.

Add Pillows & Cushions

If you don’t already have pillows and cushions, these are a must for a cosy room. From a practical point of view, if you use your bed to watch movies, there is nothing better than cosying up with lots of cushions. From a visual point of view, it will make the room, and bed, look so much cosier too.

Candles & Lighting

Candles are brilliant in winter. We get such dark evenings that they can not only be used as a source of light, but can add a cosy feel to the room. Scented candles are a good option as you can get a seasonal one. The scent of cinnamon or pine with get you feeling festive, as well as cosy.

If you don’t have much lighting, I would recommend investing in a lamp or two. A floor lamp can look stunning, as can some smaller, bedside lamps. You don’t want to always feel like you have the big, bright, main light on, particularly in winter.

What are your top tips for making a bedroom cosy this winter?

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/1mbFKuK Making Your Bedroom Cosy This Winter - International Home Design Interior

How To Create The Ultimate Healthy Home

Good health is essential to our wellbeing. We all know that we should be eating plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. And we all know that staying active is key for a healthy body and mind. But there are plenty of things you can do around the home to maintain good health too. It is possible to design your home to ensure you can not only maintain your health but improve it.

Clever design in the home makes healthy living a pleasure. It doesn’t matter what size home you have. You may even be about to build yourself a new home. We have put together a guide to help you design a home with your health interests in mind. From furniture choices to decor decisions, you can find helpful tips to get well and stay feeling great for the rest of your life. Here is our healthy living guide for your home:

Windows

Your choice of windows for your home is very important. You need to be able to allow plenty of fresh air into your home every day. Fresh air replaces stale and damp air to help you breathe better. It can also help to refresh your fabrics and carpets. Windows should be lockable for security. They should ideally be locked into open positions that allow you to enjoy fresh air without risk of anyone getting in.

Windows should also have safety features upstairs to prevent children falling out. Double glazed panels should keep unwanted acoustics out of your home. They should also keep the heat in so you don’t feel cold in the house. Cold homes can harm your health. Aim to keep your ambient temperature above 18 degrees celsius. The glass should also keep UV rays to a minimum, and offer a degree of privacy.

Natural light is essential to our health. It helps regulate our body clock. Natural light also helps us maintain a good mood and emotional well-being. A good view to the outside is also essential for our mental health. The better the view, the happier we should be. Plenty of natural light is desirable, but use Venetian blinds to deflect unwanted rays.

Doors

All doors in your home should prevent drafts or unwanted movement of air. They should keep you warm and prevent fire penetration. Doors to the outside should have extra locking mechanisms to ensure your safety and security. Many doors include feature windows to help natural light filter in. They also provide you with a view of the outside so you can see who is calling.

If you have any physical difficulties opening doors, choose door handles that are easier to manage. You may even benefit from installing electrical doors with an auto opening. This can be particularly handy if you use a wheelchair. Paned doors should have special, toughened, safety glass to prevent accidents if they break.

In The Garden

The exterior of your home is very important to your health. It provides a great space for being active. You might have a family trampoline or swimming pool to provide opportunities for sport led activities. Some people install a gazebo or decking area for T’ai Chi or Yoga. Zen gardens can be very helpful if you like to meditate. They are peaceful and relaxing. This can help reduce stress levels too, improving your physical and emotional health.

Gardens with colorful planting are also very good for your health. Color therapy has long been used to promote mental balance. Flowers help us feel more cheerful generally. Natural greens from grass lawns are also thought to promote good health. Gardening is a very healthy hobby to choose as well. It is quite active, and provides plenty to do all year round. A water feature can be very calming, as can windchimes.

You can use your garden for dining if you have a decking or patio area. Exposure to daylight and sunlight can be good for you if you take the right precautions. Best of all, your garden can provide you with plenty of fresh, healthy foods like fruit and vegetables. Straight from your garden to your table is about as healthy as you can get!

Bedroom

The bedroom is one of the most important rooms in the house. Sleep is crucial to your health. Without a good night of sleep, your health can quickly degenerate. Your mind suffers most at first. Focus and concentration are hard if your sleep is lacking even for one night. Over time, your memory can also be affected. Sleeping files away the day’s memories. Without this essential process, you can soon feel very forgetful and confused.

Sleep also heals the body when we are injured or ill. It’s important to choose blinds and curtains that block out all the light. You need your bedroom to be very quiet, so your sleep is not disturbed. Try not to use any screens like TVs or smartphones in your bedroom. Keep colors peaceful in pastel blues and pinks. Try to avoid lots of busy patterns, and keep dresser surfaces clear of clutter.

Your bed is a very important piece of furniture. Problems like arthritis or bed sores can be relieved with hardside waterbed mattresses. The waterbed was developed to help relieve such conditions. It can also help aid restful sleep as a stress reliever. You should keep the bedroom temperature cool at about 18 or 19 degrees celsius to ensure you aren’t too warm as you sleep.

Bathroom

A jacuzzi bath is ideal for soothing aching muscles and joints. It is also a great way to unwind after a busy day. Some cultures use Sauna to relieve stress and maintain good health. These can be built into a large bathroom area, or even situated outside. Showers that have built-in music systems can be used to enhance your mood. Some lively music first things in the morning can help energize you for the day.

Bathrooms should have natural light and opening windows. This helps steam and moisture dry out quickly to avoid harmful mold spores. Bathrooms should be cleaned daily to reduce the risk of bacteria building up. Grouting and seals also need special attention on a regular basis. Sunlight can cause muck to build up quickly. Once you have finished in the bathroom, it may be best to use a blind to avoid direct rays.

Kitchen

Your kitchen should include a good sized refrigerator to store plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. Kitchens are very dangerous places, but the risks can be reduced with clever design. Use soft close drawers to avoid fingers becoming trapped. Pots and pans should be kept in a mid-level drawer. This means that the heaviest items are not being pulled out from above your head or low near the ground.

Thorough cleaning every day will prevent food residue. Food crumbs cause bacteria and attract insects and rodents. If you struggle to vacuum regularly, invest in a robot vacuum. Some will mop the floor and use UV light to kill bacteria as they go. Make sure windows can be reached easily. They are often situated behind sinks which makes them difficult to reach if you are shorter.

Living Room

The living room is the desired space for relaxing and entertaining. If you sit here a lot each day, you can soon develop poor posture. Aches and pains also creep in if you are not sitting comfortably. Have a clock in a prominent position and aim to stand every thirty minutes or so. You might use the excuse of getting a drink or popping to the bathroom. Your seating should be supportive and at the right height for you to use.

Recliners are very helpful for those who suffer from leg problems. Raising the legs can help relax you, easing high blood pressure. However, stiffness in the knees and feet can occur if legs are raised for too long. Use coffee tables situated in close proximity of your seating. This prevents the risk of spills. Natural fires can be comforting but they may cause breathing problems for asthmatics. An outside fire can be a pleasant alternative. TVs should be on a stand ideally. This means they are at the right height for your eye line. When they are wall mounted, they can be too high, causing extra neck strain as you look up.

Stairs

If you have stairs in your home, it is essential they are well lit at all times. It can be very easy to slip, especially if they are carpeted. It may be possible to install small LED lights on each step to light the way, much like deck lights. There should ideally be railings on each side of the stairs for extra security. Banisters and balustrades should be at a good height with limited gaps between. Small animals and children are at particular risk of falling through. Use light paint here to maximize the brightness of the area.

A healthy home can be created as a concept for the whole building. Or it may be developed over time, room by room. Everything from the structure to the decor can help improve your health at home. Have a happy, healthy house.

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/1IFYexw How To Create The Ultimate Healthy Home - International Home Design Interior

How To Help Make Your Air More Pleasant

Household odors are embarrassing. Few remarks can cause your cheeks to flush as quickly as a guest’s offhanded comment, “What is that smell?” Even worse, a bad scent in your house often is the harbinger of dangerous problems, such as mold infestations, food spoilage, and households pests, such as mice and insects. If your house isn't smell its freshest, don’t panic. Below are several actions you can take to keep your home smelling fresh.

Don’t Rely Only on Air Fresheners

Air fresheners are the bandages of home cleaning. Although they may smell pleasant in the short-term period, indoor air quality specialists report that they fail to fix to root causes of unpleasant household odors. Even worse, air fresheners are often the source of chemical contamination, reducing your home's indoor air quality (IAQ) considerably.

Moreover, the scent in your standard air freshener is wholly artificial. Do yourself a favor and create a better odor-reduction plan than simply buying air fresheners at the supermarket.

Wash Your Dishes

Your kitchen can harbor all types of food aromas. Decaying food can leave a lingering aroma behind. This problem is especially pronounced in the sink. Dishes with food particles on them may cause recurring odor problems that gradually spread throughout your house. Be sure to clean any food particles off your dishes immediately after using them and wash them regularly.

Run the food disposal unit when food waste accumulates, and be sure to periodically run deodorizing soap or thinly sliced lemon peel down the disposal as well to prevent problems from emerging.

Clean the Carpet

Keeping your carpets in perfect shape doesn’t begin and end with vacuuming. As people walk on carpets, debris can get pushed into the carpeting by foot traffic. Even after the items of garbage are vacuumed up, odors and stains can stay and become baked into the floor. Children and family pets can also exacerbate the problem.

To counteract carpet odors, use a deodorizing carpet powder. Sprinkle the powder onto the carpet, allow the powder to sit on the carpet for a few minutes, and then vacuum the carpet to remove the powder.

Decorate With Indoor Houseplants

Growing some indoors plants is a great way to both remove unpleasant smells and brighten up your place. Tending plants can seem like work, but in fact, the amount of care required by a plant varies widely by the type. Succulent plants, for instance, need relatively little water and are a good choice for people who are often away from home and can't be present to water plants. As far as scents, plants such as jasmine and orchids can help make your air more pleasant. Certainly the first step to addressing your house’s odor problem is simply admitting that a problem exists. While realizing that carelessness with debris and an inadequate cleaning regimen are embarrassing sources of the problems, you can take some steps to solve home odor issues before they worsen and compromise your home's indoor air quality.

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/1QuTWtT How To Help Make Your Air More Pleasant - International Home Design Interior

When Old Meets New: Combining Vintage & Modern Without Fear

There is certainly an argument to be made that modern is vintage and vice versa. Interior design is a unique beast that draws inspiration from the past and combines it with a more contemporary appeal. And, it must be said, it works. What's more, it makes the ever changing landscape of interior design much easier to bear. While trends come and go more quickly than you can keep up with, they're often subtle differences. Little nuances that can be easily switched around to create an entirely new aura in any room.

It's refreshing. You should never allow your home to become too complacent. Taking pride in your interiors is what every homeowner should strive for. There are other considerations, of course, like sustainability and ethical design. But the most important factor to always keep in mind is to look constantly for ways to refresh your decor. A common misconception is that keeping up appearances is an expensive affair, but it doesn't need to be. Dramatic overhauls, by and large, aren't really necessary. Instead, focusing on subtle changes can be relatively painless but can result in a profound transformation.

You can never go far wrong by embracing vintage furnishings. The way interior design works is very much in peaks and troughs. Trends will come and go and come again. Trying to latch onto every shift in momentum will only result in an ongoing uphill battle, and you'll never quite reach the top. There always has - and always will - be a place for vintage in design, though. And there is an abundance of ways you can utilize it. Here are our top tips for using vintage sporadically throughout your home.

The First Rule of Vintage Club

It's not what you think it is. Okay, so vintage vibes aren't all that easy to pull off. If you go overboard, you risk making your home look a little outdated, antiquated and out of touch. So, what's the best way to incorporate hints of vintage throughout your home? By combining them with more modern stylings. The idea of mixing up traditional and contemporary elements together isn't a new revelation. Nor is it unique to the interior design world.

The best way to achieve a perfect balance is by creating a modern environment that contains more traditional elements. Sort of a juxtaposition of stylings from then and now. That, in essence, is exactly what interior design is all about. Taking older elements and giving them a new lease of life. Nothing is new. Every idea, concept and design is borrowed; harking back to a time gone by. Every single piece of design can be traced back to an older origin. The trick is finding a way to work in harmony, and giving it a modern spin.

Furniture designers like Ian Snow understand this concept well. They take organic elements - even bound by imperfection - and give them a spin to make them work in a modern setting. It is, however, easier said than done. Designers all around the world are striving for a perfect balance, and may go some way to explaining why trends evolve so frequently.

Opposites Attract

One of the biggest fears for designers is clashing. It has been a significant problem at the forefront of design thinking for as long as I can remember. Some designers have come to fear taking chances while their more successful counterparts embrace it. That's the secret to a successful design plan - taking risks. You may well come across a couple of duds, but you can make it work with some smart thinking.

Of course, it helps immeasurably if you have an understanding of what will work together already. Which colours will offset other tones and shades? What furniture will highlight a room? How natural light can enhance certain feelings? The likelihood is that, by frequenting this blog, you already have an interest in interior design. Think about things that you already know. Look at your previous patterns to see what worked, and what didn't work so well.

There is no doubt in my mind that one of the most successful design styles is to combine old and new. This kind of hybrid is where you'll find the most success; provided you know when and how to use it. Remember - the second rule of vintage club is not to create chaos, but to look considered and measured.

Draw Inspiration From Foreign Design

Taking cues from more exotic locations is one of the more tried and tested methods of design. And what is one constant fixture in, for example, Eastern European design? They embrace their old stylings in combination with more modern trends. Think about big and bold patterns. Rustic furnishings. You don't need to go down the route of an exotic theme to make it work, but looking how they contrast is a good jumping off point.

There's a certain braveness in foreign design that is far too lacking amongst western designers. How do they achieve that? Well, to put it simply, they just aren't afraid to try new combinations. Who would have thought that gold ornaments could complement patterned red wallpaper so well? In theory, it sounds like a design disaster. In practice, it works. You won't find out until you try - that's a key point to remember.

Don't Fear Eccentricity

When did 'eccentric' become such a bad word, anyway? The bohemians of yesteryear were once heralded as visionaries. Now, any kind of fashion faux pas is quickly shot down before it even gets out of the starting blocks. There is far too much of a fixation on the tried and tested today. Every design style that ever came to existence was once considered a calculated gamble.

One of the most successful combinations, as far as I can tell, is to combine vintage furniture with a modern setting. What is your current bathroom style? If you've been keeping up with trends, you'll likely have embraced a more contemporary appeal. What would happen if you threw a vintage bath tub in there? Would it all fall apart? Or would you create a distinct character that enhances your entire room?

Try it out, mix it up, and - above all - don't be afraid to experiment.

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/1IRZE2N When Old Meets New: Combining Vintage & Modern Without Fear - International Home Design Interior

Stunning Garden Designs That You'll Want To Copy

We may be in the middle of battling the winter blues, but there's no reason you can't think to the future. Namely, a future filled with the sunshine and pleasant days spent in the garden. While you've got the time, the winter is perfect for piecing together the garden of your dreams. This way, all the hard work is done by the time the sun puts his hat on, and you can enjoy the fruits of your labour. Sound good? I thought so. With that in mind, let's take a look at some luxury garden ideas to get you inspired. Trust me, once you've laid eyes on some of these designs, you won't want to miss out on having them for yourself.

A-Maze-Ing Grace

If you've got the space outside, you might as well put it to good use, right? And you could even turn those tired old bushes into something far more exciting by creating a garden maze. All you'll really need is to source the services of a quality garden landscaping specialist, and the rest is history. You and your kids will have endless fun getting lost in your very own maze. Let's just hope things don't turn out like The Shining.

The Great Indoors... Outdoors!

When the sun is beating down outside, we longingly crave to embrace it. As a race, though, humans cannot live without their creature comforts. Call it a byproduct of evolution or something. Whatever the reason, we just aren't willing to part with the things we cherish, even if it means missing out on the sunshine. Well, why do you have to give up either? Instead, you could just create a wonderful living space in your garden. Imagine that. Sofas, television, and coffee tables all in your backyard. Just remember to make sure they're well protected from the rain, or you might regret this decision.

The Righteous Path

There are very few things we appreciate more than well-crafted paving. Equally, there aren't a lot of things that'll make your garden more inviting, either. You don't need much to build a pavement in your backyard. Just the right tools, maybe some sandstone rocks, and the know-how. Or, if all else fails, the contact details for a good paving specialist. Get creative with your garden path - there's no need to colour between the lines here. Dream big and be bold.

Straw Than A Feeling

Gazebos are very popular already, but they can get a bit dull, can't they? The truth is; if you've seen one, you've seen them all. Or have you? Not if you put a little bit of creative thinking into practice. Why settle for the same old mundane gazebo, anyway? Think bigger than that. How about an extremely cool thatched Bali hut in your back garden? Now that's the kind of thing we can get behind. It'll make your backyard seem very fun all of a sudden, and you might even feel like you're on the beaches of Hawaii rather than sat at home.

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/1HQclQI Stunning Garden Designs That You'll Want To Copy - International Home Design Interior

Plan a Kitchen That Fits Your Lifestyle and Budget

A kitchen remodel is a major project that requires careful design planning. It's a project that can cost you a bundle, so you must choose a layout that fits your lifestyle and materials that fit your budget. Here are some helpful kitchen remodeling tips.

Which Layout is Best For You?

Today's kitchens often serve as the hub of the house where families gather for cooking and dining, as well as family activities and conversations. Depending on your lifestyle, you may prefer an open or closed kitchen layout.

Open kitchens are great for large families and homeowners who have a busy lifestyle where multitasking is an essential part of daily life. They provide an open area that often adjoins a family room or living room. They allow you to prepare dinner, mingle with guests, or supervise your children from the kitchen. Since an open kitchen has little privacy, it requires regular attention to organization and cleaning.

Closed kitchens offer more privacy with walls to hide clutter and mess while cooking, but they don't offer open areas for entertaining. It's harder to visit with friends and family or interact with the kids while you're preparing meals. Since a closed kitchen is a confined space, you'll want a direct entrance into your dining room for meals and entertaining.

Plan Your Budget

Whether your kitchen remodel budget is $10,000 or $50,000, here's a breakdown of expected costs:

* Cabinets and Hardware – 29 percent
* Design and Planning – 22 percent
* Floors and Countertops – 15 percent
* Appliances – 15 percent
* Electrical and Plumbing – 10 percent

If you want to save money, keep your current layout. Knocking down walls and moving gas lines, electrical wiring and plumbing connections will increase your remodeling costs. To save on cabinet costs, choose a cabinet manufacturer that offers the door style and finish you want as a standard option. Choose aftermarket organizers like utensil dividers, roll-out racks and trays, and storage racks, rather than custom built-in options. Choose flooring and countertop materials that are practical, easy to clean, and fit within your budget requirements.

To get the kitchen of your dreams, hiring a contractor that can provide factory-built, custom cabinets may provide important advantages:

* 25 year warranties on cabinets, internal hardware and workmanship
* Controlled production environment for stable wood without future warping
* Computerized cutting tools for precise cuts and joinery
* Baked-on finishes that are more durable than on-site finishes

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/1TIPasG Plan a Kitchen That Fits Your Lifestyle and Budget - International Home Design Interior

How To Create An Incredible Ambiance In Your Home

Your home ought to feel special. It ought to be cozy. And it definitely needs an atmosphere to make it inviting to guests and homely to its owner. Here are some great ways to create an incredible ambience within your home.

Clear the Clutter

Mess is not attractive, and minimalism is definitely ‘in’ right now. So, get some boxes and package up everything you don’t need anymore because you don’t want anything to ruin the ambience you are going to create. Simplicity is elegant and well sought after in the home. Guests will judge your house by its cleanliness and tidiness. So be sure not to miss out this step if you really want to create the most welcoming of atmospheres within your home.

Air Con

Nobody wants to be sweltering hot, particularly if you live somewhere close to the equator. Your home is a sanctuary where you want to feel calm and chilled out. Investing in keeping yourself cool will only make your home seem more inviting. Check out Wattle Grove for air conditioning solutions. Staying cool with a slight breeze evokes notions of relaxing by the sea - what an incredible atmosphere to create within your home.

Scents

As guests enter your home, fill their nostrils with vibrant and exotic smells. Consider an incense candle either side of your porch door to create a welcoming vibe for visitors. First impressions are important and smelling something gorgeous will really wow your next guests. This moment will stick with them as they travel through the rooms of your house, making everything that slight bit more appealing. This is a simple trick to creating an incredible ambience.

Bright Light

It is important to get the lightning right in the rooms of your home. This is in order to create the optimum ambience. There are two paths you can go down - each suiting different rooms best. Bright and airy rooms need ambient lighting to create a relaxing vibe within a space. This will compliment flush white walls, fresh flowers and plain furniture and provide an impressive charm to any room. Basic, fresh white linen in a bedroom also works well with this sort of lighting, creates an ambience similar to a fancy hotel suite.

Accent Lighting

Dimly lit rooms like a sitting room in the evening require accent lighting. This provides a focus on specific features within a space, such as a fur rug or television set. This creates an incredibly cozy ambience. I’ve discussed how important furnishings are to creating an ambience. So purchase lights with a dimming feature so you can create the perfect atmosphere to match any evening. Fairy lights are perfect for draping over fencing or a bush if your sitting room opens out onto a patio or garden from French windows. A glowing fireplace compliments this type of room perfectly and will complete the cozy ambience you are after.

Hopefully, these tips will help gift your home with an incredible charm and sense of character. The perfect ambience for your home awaits you - so why not start tomorrow?

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/1lZv8Pp How To Create An Incredible Ambiance In Your Home - International Home Design Interior

Bright Ideas to Bring The Outside In

Homes and gardens are two separate things, right? Well that all depends on how you look at it!
The boundaries may have been well defined at one time. A vase full of flowers on the table signalled the end of the division. Things got a little crazy when houseplants started to invade. Then there were conservatories, which was almost like being in the garden. Patios became decks and verandas. And it didn’t stop there! These days whole houses are built of on the principle of light and green. Blending the two seamlessly is known as letting the outside in or the ubiquitous’ lovely inside outside flow’.

Seriously though it is time to let the outside in and your renovation should be based around it. Doing so creates another room, for everyone to enjoy. The extent of your project is only limited by your imagination. Take a look around some of the standout properties on your street. They will all have mastered the art of the blending in house and garden. Talk to therenovationcompany.com.au about the possibilities. Think outside the box.

Adding structure.

Simple enough to do with a conservatory or a versatile Pergola. These just have a magic way of creating an intimate outdoor space. Take your pergola out over the deck. This has the effect of framing your entrance nicely but somehow works its magic by allowing you to feel enclosed by outside all at the same time. It may have something to do with the idea of framing boundaries that makes us feel more secure.

Either way pergolas have an instant effect. Amazingly they are super quick to put up and can be as long and wide as you like. Planted up with fragrant climbers each season will bring you more pleasure. You could add climbing fruits to provide you with a seasonal meal and a great talking point.

Eye Catching Paint job.

Some older houses simply suffer from drab or old fashioned paint jobs. A way to instantly up the vibration of your house is to consider rendering the outside and perhaps splashing out on a new coat of paint. There are some really funky colours now that can blend in with the garden and really create harmony, or charming contrasts. Colours don’t have to be dull earth tones. You could add a real splash of beach and coast anywhere you are, simply by adding a more vibrant shade of colour.

Landscaping

The humble front and back garden has had its day. These days everything can blend into one seamless whole. Feature plants can be added anywhere. Garden centres have a great selection. You can use planters for lagers specimens or simply smaller pots and boxes. These can all be low maintenance and can look incredible set off with gravel, stones and even larger rocks.

Let Your Inner Artist Out

Why just have art in house? Enjoy the opening up of your home with contemporary sculpture. Metal Art is hip and rusting no longer signifies something that needs a coat of paint.

From water features to natural pools. From sun drenched decking to hammocks like the ones on hayneedle.com. There are a myriad of ways to start enjoying your whole house inside and out.

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/1YwdjWk Bright Ideas to Bring The Outside In - International Home Design Interior

How to Survive The Rennovation Rollercoaster

Granted your renovation isn’t in a war zone though sometimes it is going to feel like it. Sometimes it will look like it. Making the decision to undertake a renovation is a major one. Undergoing one, no matter how well planned and executed can be a traumatic experience. Here are some ways to prepare and survive intact.

It is a rule of thumb that building work costs more than you think. Even a reputable builder will tell you to make an allowance. There are some eventualities that can never be anticipated. Until you open something up you can’t be 100% sure of what is underneath.

The cost of materials, goes up and rarely does it happen the other way around. Sure hiring a reputable company and getting a quote will take some possible sting out of the tail. Getting a guarantee is good, as is knowing how long it will all take. The percentage of builds that come in under budget are in the minority.

The second unwritten rule is that it takes longer than you think. Again, unforeseen circumstance crop up, fixtures and fittings are delayed, and the weather is unkind. All of this can be anticipated to some extent.

A Reno is an emotional business.

No matter how well planned you are, your project is going to be an upheaval. You will no doubt be delighted at the prospect of seeing the final result, but it makes sense to prepare yourself for the stages in between. A company like Million Dollar Makeovers will let you know how to deal with any eventuality.

Before it all begins

This is possibly the most exciting time before the bit at the end. You are on real high here. You have your wish list and your builder, expert or architect has been delighted to let you know that everything is possible. They are right. At a cost, anything is indeed possible.

Bringing it back in

The reality check of what is affordable sometimes bites here. There might be other issues to do with planning or consent. Still you’ll adapt your design and shorten your wish list.

Get Out

Hopefully, you are not one of those people who thinks it would save money or simply be possible to live in your house while the renovations happen. Trust me, this is not a good idea. It’s not just the army of contractors who will be living with you or their tools and even if they take their boots off all the time. They can't and they won’t. They will make a noise and a mess. et out, stay out. Go and stay with family, hire a house or go house sitting. Plan this one out.

Stay Out

Tempting as it is to oversee things, you have paid a professional to do that, and you have taken out building insurance. Unless you hate your house and delight in its destruction, stay well away. Seeing the paraphernalia of your life being ripped out is rarely pleasant. Busy, hardworking contractors will scowl at you. You are in the way.

It’s not as big as I thought

Until the final colour schemes go on your walls, your new space will expand but mostly it will shrink and feel dark and unloved. This is possibly your lowest potential moment. Resist the need to go in and clean up. At this stage, there will only be more mess. Your garden is a tip, and there are vehicles parked on the drive. No one at this stage is going anywhere - they are trying to get it finished.

The finished result

Except that it’s probably not the end. Elements of your build will need to weather in, landscaping may need a season to recover. Most of all you will need to get used to it. But you are relieved and delighted. It has, in all likelihood, been worth it. By forewarning yourself, you have been prepared for the renovation rollercoaster.

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/1MEPPJe How to Survive The Rennovation Rollercoaster - International Home Design Interior

Top 10 Tools to Kill Pests

There are a lot of tools out there that people use in order to try and kill pests. Here’s a quick look at 10 of the most popular tools that are out there that are used to kill pests on a regular basis.

1. Utilizing the Lay of the Land. There are some types of land that just aren’t conducive to pests, and by planting things that they wouldn’t go after anyway, you can make sure that the bugs don’t bother the plants that you have growing.

2. Pesticides. It’s not a very good tool to be using considering all of the chemicals that you’re putting into the world, but at the same time, it can still be a big deal and could help out immensely in the worst cases.

3. Sound. There are some bugs and rodents (and other pests) that are repelled by certain pitch of sound. Because of that, you can use sound to scare some of those things off for good. There are lots of tools that allow you to do that.

4. Rackets. It sounds silly, but did you know that there is a tennis racket that is meant to be a bug zapper as well? This has actually become a popular product and a lot of people are using it outdoors to keep the bugs away.

5. Smells. Some bugs just don’t like certain scents, and because of that, you can easily scare them off by spraying areas with those scents. Citronella is a huge help for this as well, so you want to keep that in mind too. Look around to try and find some of the best.

6. Plants and herbs. As with smells, some plants and herbs act as natural repellants for a number of common pests, so by planting them and taking care of them appropriately, you can ensure that you get the most out of keeping them at bay.

7. Bug “Zappers”. Many people will hang a bug zapper in areas that have a lot of bugs so that they don’t get into the home or bite the people who may be enjoying things outdoors.

8. Other Bugs. Ladybugs will eat a ton of other bugs, and they aren’t the only ones. These bugs are actually helpful instead of harmful, so consider adding them to your home or garden to get the help you need.

9. Traps. All sorts of traps are out there for all sorts of pests. Just set a few up and you’ll be ready to go.

10. Environmental Changes. If you change your environment, you can actually make it quite difficult for pests to survive effectively. If you have been looking for pest control in Tucson, then you want to make sure that you look around and find a company that cares about you and your needs. Check out all of your options and see which one is going to give you what you need to get rid of those pests.

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/1MCujVr Top 10 Tools to Kill Pests - International Home Design Interior

Give Your Dining Room The Wow Factor With These Tips

Do you want to give your dining room the wow factor? Would you like guests to feel jealous whenever they come round for dinner parties? Then you’ve come to the right place. The simple tips on this page could make all the difference to your home. Everyone wants to have the most upmarket home design possible, and this is a good way to start.

Buy a large and sturdy wooden table

Your dining room table is the most important part of your room. So, it makes sense to get something that is going to last a long time. Flimsy tables are sure to break within a couple of years, and that means you’ll spend more cash in the long run. As the infographic shows, solid wood is the way forward.

Hang family portraits

Most people think that hanging photographs of their family at home is a bad idea. They’ve watched lots of design programs on the TV that say you should hide them away. However, your dining room is the perfect place to put your most important photos. Maybe you had some professional ones taken when your children were younger?

Install an upmarket light fitting

Depending on the amount of space you have in your dining room, you should choose your light fittings accordingly. Those with a large room could consider crystal chandeliers. They always look amazing, and they will add an extra element of luxury. Everyone else should consider smaller alternatives that still make jaws drop.

You should be in the best position to give your dining room the wow factor after reading this post. Continue your research and look for more amazing ideas before you make a start. With a bit of luck, you should have the perfect dining room by Christmas.


Infographic Created By Log Furniture Place

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/1PY5ky8 Give Your Dining Room The Wow Factor With These Tips - International Home Design Interior

Design Tips For A Chic And Stylish Conservatory

There are millions of people who would love to have a conservatory - an extra room in their home to relax and unwind in. Whether you’ve just built your conservatory or have had it for years, now is the time to transform it into a stylish space.

If you are lucky enough to have your own sunroom, you need to make the most of it. Believe it or not, transforming your conservatory into an elegant space is much easier than you would think.

Want to more about how you can take your conservatory to the next level, and create a space that’s chic and stylish? Keep reading for our guide to what you need to do to create the most fantastic space.

Pick a design style

Before starting to decorate and add furniture to your conservatory, pick a design style. Think about the rest of your home - is it decorated in a contemporary or classic way, and ensure your sunroom matches it.

There are lots of design styles that work well in conservatories, but a couple of the best ones are neutral, monochrome and pastel themes. So if you are stuck for ideas, it might be worth considering using one of these ideas.

Be choosy about the flooring

Just like in the rest of your home, when it comes to picking flooring for your sunroom, it’s important to be choosy. Don’t just opt for any old design. Think about the effect that you want to create in the space - choosing the right flooring is essential for this.

For a chic and stylish space, slate, wooden or tiled flooring is perfect. Just bare in mind that both slate and tiled flooring can get incredibly cold, so wood could be a better option. However, if you can afford to add underfloor heating, stone or tile flooring are both ideal.

Opt for stylish furniture

Don’t make the mistake of thinking that the only option for your conservatory furniture is rattan pieces, as that’s not the case. If you would prefer to add a regular couch or armchair, that’s perfectly fine. The style of furniture that you choose will depend on your theme and preferences.

To add a little extra comfort and style to your furniture, invest in cushions. While it’s important to choose designs that match the color scheme of the space, the pillows don’t all have to match each other. A fantastic way to add extra style to any space is by opting to mix and match your cushion designs.

Don’t forget to add accessories

In any space, the most important design feature is accessories. A few carefully chosen accessories can take a dull, drab space and turn it into a chic and stylish haven. The key is to pick pieces that not only add style but also improve the overall appearance of the room.

For some fantastic ideas for accessorizing your conservatory, take a look online for inspiration. Often, photo websites like Pinterest and Instagram, have some fabulous ideas on them.

To give your conservatory a beautifully chic look, all you need to do is take note of these ideas.

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/1IdzO8Z Design Tips For A Chic And Stylish Conservatory - International Home Design Interior

Rise and Recline Chairs Improve Mobility

Have a seat! This simple invitation is one you may take for granted for much of your life. As you age, having a seat may become a monumental task. Difficulty sitting and standing can be a lifelong issue for those born with certain health problems as well. Considering the number of times you are required to transition from sitting to standing and back in one day, your ability to do so with ease impacts your quality of life tremendously.

Mobility is Necessary for Independence

If you are unable to sit or stand with ease, you will be restricted in other areas of life as well. If you can't get up, you can't get to the restroom alone, or get to the kitchen to make a snack or meal in a timely fashion. While you may be independent in these other tasks, if you can't get up to attend to them, you will require assistance simply due to your mobility difficulties. The right seating could be the difference between a dependent or independent lifestyle.

Leisure Activities Require Sitting Comfortably

It isn't only the necessities that require sitting and standing with ease. Reading a book, watching your favorite show and chatting with friends and family require extended time in a comfortably seated position. The right chair can enhance your ability to enjoy the relationships and activities that feed your soul. Chairs that increase your mobility may increase your happiness at the same time.

Mobility Impacts Self Esteem

When you can take care of your own needs and do the things you enjoy, you feel better about yourself. You're outlook on the world brightens. You are better able to take advantage of opportunities for growth and fulfillment. Mobility allows you to be an active contributor to your own life, your family, your community and the world. Effective seating solutions can help you live a confident life.

Assistance From Others Can be Risky for Them

If you are mobile once you're up, but just need that boost to get going, it might seem easiest to have a friend or loved one give you a lift. Lifting another human being, especially if not done correctly can cause a host of issues for the lifter, most notably, back strain. There are chairs that are made to do that lifting, saving others from rendering themselves immobile by lifting you.

Solutions Exist for Those With Mobility Issues

Whether age has taken a toll on your mobility or you are an individual with lifelong mobility difficulties, there are seating options that can help you gain independence, confidence and a better quality of life. Get advice at websites like http://ift.tt/1Sh02wY about solutions for your personal mobility needs. They offer stylish and comfortable options that improve mobility and look great too.

Difficulty sitting and standing does not need to slow you all the way down. You can gain more independence and confidence, depend less on others and do more of what you enjoy with innovative seating solutions. So have a seat in the perfect chair and start planning ways to enjoy your new found freedom.

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/1Yr9tO1 Rise and Recline Chairs Improve Mobility - International Home Design Interior

Keep Your Houseplants Healthy with These 5 Basic Tips!

For a lot of people, maintaining a lush outdoor garden is easier than keeping a handful of houseplants alive. This doesn't mean that growing houseplants are tough; it's just that indoor plants need to be cared for the right way.

While you're probably giving your houseplants all the care and attention you can, you could be doing more than necessary or less than required for your plants. So if you've been killing your houseplants lately, don't give up on indoor gardening already!

Try putting these tips into practice and you're sure to breathe new life into your houseplants.

Give Your Plants Adequate Light

All plants need varying amounts of sunlight, so if your houseplants are growing lanky with wide spaces between leaves, or if you notice unusually thin or small leaves, or a lighter leaf color, it could mean that they aren’t getting enough light. Note that variegated leaves will lose their markings if they receive less sunlight.

Conversely, if you see leaves wilting or browning at the edges, it is possible that the plant is receiving too much sun.

To ensure that your plants receive adequate sunlight, remember to check care labels when buying new plants. If you’ve done away with old care labels without glancing at them, find out how much sun your houseplants need by researching online or asking at your local nursery.

Water Plants According to Their Needs

Just like sunlight, all plants need varying amounts of water to grow well. So if you water all your houseplants daily or water them whenever you remember to, don’t be surprised if a couple of them have already died.

Most plants grow well in a medium that stays moist, not wet. Water such plants consistently as alternating periods of flood and drought can stress plants. Wait for the soil to turn dry when watering plants that prefer the soil to dry out a little between waterings.

As a general rule, if the soil looks wet, don’t water the plant. If you’re unsure, stick your index finger knuckle-deep into the soil- if it feels dry, water the plant and if it feels damp, wait for a couple of days and check again.

Keep in mind that the water you use should be at room temperature. Tap water is fine, but you might want to fill an open container with tap water and let it rest for at least 24 hours before using it to water your houseplants. Doing so will help chemicals dissipate and make the water safe for your plants. Never use distilled water for your houseplants.

Use the Right Pots

You can use just about any container as a plant pot depending on your preference. Terracotta pots are popular, as are glass and resin ones. Before choosing pots, keep in mind that unglazed wood and clay pots will absorb moisture while glass, resin, and plastic won’t. As such, if you want to buy a pot for a plant that needs more water, go for non-porous materials.

Irrespective of the material of the pot, make sure it has drainage holes to let excess water through. You can also build a layer of gravel at the bottom and then layer soil on top to protect the plant roots from rotting. Use glazed saucers to keep furniture, and tiled or fake grass flooring from getting wet.

Take Care of the Humidity

If you notice brown leaf tips, wilted edges, shriveled flowers, or leaf drop, chances are that the indoor humidity is wreaking havoc on your houseplants. Increasing humidity levels will help, but certain plants like ficus, Sansevieria, and most palms prefer a dry environment.

To increase humidity, move plants away from areas where they get hit by cold or hot drafts. Grouping plants together can also increase humidity levels as can regular misting. Using a pebble tray will also be helpful.

Protect from Pests

Most importantly, inspect new plants before bringing them home- you don’t want your healthy plants to get infected. Even if the new plant doesn’t have any visible signs of pests or diseases, keep it separate from your other plants for a fortnight. If you don’t notice anything after 15 days, you can place the new plant wherever you prefer.

Check all your plants for pests and diseases regularly. If you happen to spot a problem on a plant, isolate it from the others so that you can deal with it effectively.

Additionally, wash the leaves of all your plants once in two months or so. Doing so will eliminate dust and grime, and also keep away spider mites and other insects. If washing leaves is not possible, clean them with a soft cloth and insecticidal soap. Refrain from using a feather duster to clean houseplants as it can transfer insects and eggs from one plant to another.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve read these basic tips on keeping your houseplants healthy, you needn’t worry about killing any of your indoor plants. Start following the tips given here as soon as you can, and your houseplants are sure to grow well!

from Home Design Ideas | Interior Design Ideas And Architcture http://ift.tt/21dLjZT Keep Your Houseplants Healthy with These 5 Basic Tips! - International Home Design Interior

Use Space Effectively With Modular Seating Layouts

Modular seating offers a means of effectively achieving the look that you want from your home or business, without having to have bespoke furniture created and without having to spend countless hours trying to find a piece of furniture with the perfect dimensions. Not only can you choose from each individual piece of furniture, but you can buy multiple individual components in order to create the bench seating, waiting area, or other functional design that fits in the space that you have available to you. Even if you have a room with unusual dimensions, you can still choose from a selection of attractive and high quality furniture.

Modular furniture enables you to add and remove pieces, as needed. If you decide that you want to add an end table to a row of seating, for example, you can take out one of the seating modules from the centre, push the seating into a single row, and then add the table that you want. If, at a later date, you change your mind again, you can move the table and put the seat back in. Alternatively, if you rearrange the room, you can add a corner seat and completely shift the seating around so that it matches your latest design requirements.

Modular furniture is also great for use as occasional furniture, for events or for special occasions. If you use modular seating in your reception area, and you are planning a one-off meeting, you can move some of the seating from the reception into the room where the meeting will be held. You don’t have the usual headaches that are associated with buying, renting, or storing furniture for a one off need.

Usually, buying furniture means making some kind of compromise, because it is very difficult to match furniture dimensions to the available space that you have. With modular furniture, it is possible to create bespoke room design for even the most complicated and unique of areas. You can add seating, tables, and other items exactly where you want them, and you can even use that tiny alcove that usually sits empty and serves no purpose.

Unique spaces have a certain appeal to them. They are filled with character, and they enable you to create a unique design. However, they also pose certain problems or challenges, and finding the furniture and pieces to fit in that space is one such challenge. Bespoke furniture, which offers seats and other pieces in a range of designs, styles, and layouts, enable you to make the most of the most characterful of spaces.

Modular design means that you don’t have to order bespoke furniture, which can prove costly. It also means that you can aren’t limited to just those items of furniture that will fit in the desired space. You can choose from a large selection of furniture pieces, and even some furniture sets to build on, so that you can achieve the exact look and layout that you envisaged.

Modulus Seating provides adaptive furniture that can be adapted to meet your needs, whether they are short-term or long-term needs. Choose from a wide range of good looking and functional furniture designs and enjoy great looking results.

The Benefits Of Timber Sash Windows

It is all too easy to get caught up in the PVC trend when looking to replace old windows, especially if your sash windows have come to the end of their functional life. PVC can appear to be the better choice, because it lays claim to being maintenance free, and can also claim to have a 35-year lifespan in its current guise. However, the reality may be quite different. The fact that you can’t paint the PVC frame may mean that it is maintenance free, but it also means that any discolouration caused by the sun or other atmospheric conditions cannot be repaired.

All it takes to bring a timber frame back to its former glory is a couple of coats of decent quality gloss paint. There’s no need to endure having the whole frame and window replaced, and it should only be necessary to paint the windows every few years, with some light and simple cleaning helping to ensure that the frame continues to look its best in between the paint jobs.

Timber offers a more natural and traditional look than PVC. In some instances, you may be required to replace existing timber frames with new timber frames, especially in conservation areas. Some buildings may even require that you specifically replace with sash windows in order to retain the same overall design and traditional look. However, even if this isn’t the case, do you really want to remove the character that comes from traditional timber frames, and replace this with PVC?

Sash windows themselves are very functional. They typically consist of a number of moving panels, allowing you to let as much air in or out as required. The sliding mechanism means that windows do not need to open out, and modern sash windows typically include safety and energy saving features that mean that they offer modern functionality while still retaining the period features and traditional great looks that only timber frame sash windows can provide.

Another benefit of modern sash windows is that they can be double or even triple glazed. This helps ensure energy efficiency, but it also serves to help reduce noise pollution from outside. Once the windows are closed, you won’t be able to hear traffic noises, and closing the windows in winter means that the cold and wet weather is left outside.

Timber frames also allow some natural ventilation, which is important in any home. PVC frames effectively create a sealed box, and this means that the modern home needs regular airing or ventilation in order to prevent mould and other problems from surfacing.

Sash windows are functional, attractive, and traditional. While they are available with PVC frames, if you want a truly traditional look and want to enjoy the benefits of window frames that could potentially last for 100 years or more, then timber frames may be your best option. You should ensure that you buy good quality frames and windows, and that they have all of the appropriate fixtures and features to help ensure safety and energy efficiency.

The Box Sash Window Co provides double and even triple glazed sash windows with traditional and beautiful timber frames. Whether you are looking to change to sash windows, or upgrade from existing sash windows, they can advise on the best options and help ensure that you get the best windows for your property.